Joshua Tree National Park is a short drive from Palm Springs, a desert oasis. Explore Joshua Tree from Palm Springs to experience the unique beauty of both destinations.
This well-known park offers a breathtaking combination of rock formations, desert panoramas, and various plant and animal life.
It is named for the distinctive Joshua Trees that dot its expansive landscape.
A great way to get up close and personal with the marvels of the desert is to take a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park from Palm Springs.
Come with us as we explore this captivating national park’s fascinating sites and things to do.
The Journey Begins: Easy Drive from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree National Park is easily accessible for a day trip from Palm Springs. The drive takes around one hour.
As you leave Palm Springs, the surrounding desert environment gradually opens before you, preparing you for the adventure ahead.
Entering Joshua Tree: Navigating to the West Entrance
Begin from the park’s west entrance and proceed through its south entrance before returning to Palm Springs.
- Proceed from N. Indian Canyon to I-10.
- Go to Sage Ave. in Yucca Valley by taking CA-62 E/29 Palms Hwy.
- To reach the West Entrance, take Quail Springs Road, Alta Loma Road, and Yucca Trail.
Do not rely on GPS for instructions to and from Joshua Tree National Park!
Sometimes, car navigation systems attempt to take you onto backcountry routes that may be unusable for your car due to ruts or soft sand.
First Stop: Visit the Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Centers
When you first arrive in Joshua Tree National Park, we advise you to stop at one of the visitor centers.
Accessible from the northern entrance of the park, the Oasis Visitor Center offers insightful details about the park’s geology, fauna, and hiking routes.
Situated next to the west gate, the Joshua Tree Visitor Center features informative displays and exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the surrounding area.
Ideal Joshua Tree Itinerary: A Perfect Day from Morning to Evening
Here is an itinerary that you can follow for an amazing trip to Joshua Tree National Park.
- Morning
Wake Up Early: To avoid the heat and the crowds, depart Palm Springs by 7 am. The trip is beautiful in and of itself, providing a backdrop for your day.
Hike: Go on a hike in the early morning. It is recommended to take the Hidden Valley route. It offers a simple one-mile circle with some reasonably unique rock formations and Joshua trees. It’s a fantastic way to begin your park day.
Though it’s a little more complicated, Ryan Mountain offers panoramic views for those seeking more effort. You get to decide!
- Afternoon
Eat & Explore Lunch: Refuel with wholesome fare at The Natural Sisters Cafe following your journey.
Go on Another Hike: After lunch, explore the Barker Dam Nature Trail. The hike is reasonably easy and ends in a historic dam. It frequently has a small pool of water surrounded by interesting rock formations and petroglyphs.
- Late afternoon
Scenic Drive: If you prefer to enjoy Joshua Tree’s splendor from the luxury of your vehicle, you may drive down Park Boulevard to see breathtaking views of the desert.
It’s essential to stop briefly at the Cholla Cactus Garden Nature Trail, which is roughly 12 miles south of the northern park entrance.
The teddy bear cholla is the main feature of the terrain along this trail.
Pioneertown: On your way back, stop by Pioneertown. A fantastic way to end the day is to visit this old movie set turned live town, which offers a glimpse into the Old West.
Eat an early dinner at Pappy & Harriet’s if you have the time.
- Evening
As you return to Palm Springs, enjoy the shifting hues of the desert, capping off a full day of discovery and excitement.
Essential Tips for Your Joshua Tree Visit
Best Time to Visit Joshua Tree
The best weather is experienced from March to May and October to November when average high temperatures hover around 85°F.
These months are ideal for trekking and exploration, and there’s the added advantage of wildflower blossoms in April!
Entrance Price
It costs $30 for a seven-day pass. The Private Vehicle Pass is the most popular fee. Groups might benefit from this pass since it covers every passenger in the car.
There are days when admission is free. These are:
- MLK Day
- the opening day of National Park Week
- Juneteenth
- the Great American Outdoors Act anniversary
- National Public Lands Day
- Veterans Day
Navigation and Cell Service
Joshua Tree has a terrible cell reception situation.
Research hiking trails in advance and download maps on your phone to ensure you get all the locations.
Bring your food
It’s advisable to pack a picnic lunch. There are no food joints available inside.
Luckily, several dining options exist in the surrounding villages just outside the park.
Be Careful
Avoid going near abandoned mines. Indeed, this area contains historic mines. Be cautious around them as they may pose a threat.
Keep an eye on Children
Watch over your children! There are many cacti, and nearly all of the rocks are climbable. Thus, there are many opportunities for them to get injured.
Watch Out!
Particularly in the spring and summer, take care where you place your hands and feet! During these months, snakes are most active. The park is home to six different species of rattlesnakes, which is unfortunate.
What to Pack for Your Joshua Tree Adventure
- Water bottles or hydration packs: It’s essential to stay hydrated in the desert heat, which is no joke. Carry a lot of water bottles with you.
- Sunscreen: It is strongly advised to use sunscreens. You can get sunburn or tan if you are not careful.
- A hat: A baseball cap with UPF50+ sun protection is a great choice, or you can wear one when hiking.
- Clothes: For sun protection wear a breathable hiking tee or a long-sleeve top with comfortable pants.
- Shoes: It’s imperative to have a decent pair of trail runners! We will need the right amount of flexibility, grip, and support for trekking and strolling.
- Pre-downloaded Electronic Handbooks: Download maps before travel. To simplify things even more, you can even go on a self-guided tour of Joshua Tree!
- Camera: Don’t forget to pack your camera, to capture some amazing pictures during your travel.
Joshua Tree from Palm Springs FAQs
1. How long does it take to drive from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree?
The drive from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree National Park takes approximately one hour. The journey is scenic and offers a gradual transition from the oasis environment of Palm Springs to the expansive desert landscape of Joshua Tree.
2. What is the best route to take from Palm Springs to Joshua Tree National Park?
To reach Joshua Tree National Park, start from Palm Springs and head north on N. Indian Canyon. Take I-10 to CA-62 E/29 Palms Hwy, then proceed to Sage Ave. in Yucca Valley. From there, take Quail Springs Road, Alta Loma Road, and Yucca Trail to the West Entrance. Note that GPS navigation might direct you to unsuitable backcountry routes, so use caution.
3. Where should I go first when I arrive at Joshua Tree?
It’s recommended to start at one of the visitor centers. The Oasis Visitor Center, located at the northern entrance, provides valuable information on the park’s geology, fauna, and hiking trails. The Joshua Tree Visitor Center near the west gate offers exhibits on the park’s natural and cultural history.
4. What is a suggested itinerary for a day trip to Joshua Tree?
- Morning: Depart Palm Springs by 7 am to avoid heat and crowds. Hike the Hidden Valley route for a simple, scenic walk or tackle the more challenging Ryan Mountain for panoramic views.
- Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at The Natural Sisters Cafe and then hike the Barker Dam Nature Trail, which features interesting rock formations and petroglyphs.
- Late Afternoon: Take a scenic drive along Park Boulevard and visit the Cholla Cactus Garden Nature Trail. Consider stopping by Pioneertown for a taste of the Old West and dine at Pappy & Harriet’s if time allows.
- Evening: Return to Palm Springs and enjoy the changing desert colors.
5. What is the best time of year to visit Joshua Tree?
The best times to visit are from March to May and October to November, when temperatures are mild, averaging around 85°F. Wildflower blooms in April add extra beauty to the park during spring.
6. Is cell service available in Joshua Tree?
Cell reception in Joshua Tree is limited. It is advisable to research hiking trails and download maps on your phone before your visit to avoid getting lost.
7. What should I pack for a day trip to Joshua Tree?
Pack plenty of water bottles or a hydration pack, sunscreen, a hat for sun protection, breathable hiking clothes, sturdy trail shoes, pre-downloaded maps or electronic guides, and a camera to capture your adventure.
8. What safety precautions should I take in Joshua Tree?
Avoid abandoned mines, watch over children to prevent injuries from cacti and climbable rocks, and be cautious of rattlesnakes, particularly during warmer months.
